Why North Carolina?

When God showed us it was time to go, we purchased a map from Amazon and began praying over it. Shortly after, several pastors, including two from North Carolina and one from another state, suggested we consider North Carolina. As we continued to focus on North Carolina, we came across a property for sale in Nebo. The name “Nebo” is the mountain where Moses was shown the Promised Land. This is significant considering God gave Mario the name “Camp Promised Land” when he was 18 years old.

Where are you located?

For the past two years, we have been praying over a property for sale in Nebo, NC. While we are still seeking clarity on whether this specific land is meant for us, we are confident that God is guiding us to start a Christian Youth Camp. We are focusing on taking the necessary steps today so that we can align with God’s plans for us in the future. As we continue to pray about the land in Nebo and work on raising support, we are eager to see how God will lead us.

How will your camp be different?

a. Year-Round Operation – Our goal is to run the camp throughout the entire year, offering both summer and winter sessions for youth, along with youth rallies, camp meetings, and retreats. We also plan to engage with local schools and provide teen nights for nearby churches and community members during the off-season.

b. Affordability – We aim to keep camp costs low so that no teenager is turned away. Additionally, we will establish a fund to cover expenses for those who cannot afford the camp fee.

c. Curriculum – We intend to collaborate with local churches to help their teens maintain the momentum from camp. Our plan includes developing a curriculum that supports teenagers in remembering their decisions and following a structured plan to stay engaged once they return home.

d. Staffing – Our camp will supply the necessary staff, including preachers, food, and activities. Churches will only need to bring their own counselors for their youth groups. This approach allows churches to focus on nurturing their teens and strengthening their relationships during their time at camp.

e. Relationships – Building strong relationships with participating churches is a priority for us. We plan to limit camp sessions to around 300 attendees to ensure we can connect with each group. We will offer multiple camp sessions throughout the summer to accommodate as many groups as possible.

Are you under a local church?

We are sent out by Silvery Lane Baptist Church in Dearborn Heights, MI, and work in partnership with All Points Baptist Mission in New Philadelphia, OH. Currently, we are operating under the support of our sending church, similar to how missionaries abroad remain under their sending church’s oversight. Once our camp is established, we plan to integrate into a local church in the new area.

When do you plan to have your camp up and running?

Our main challenge at the moment is identifying and purchasing the land that we believe God has designated for us. Once we secure the property, we will begin hosting events as soon as possible. Initially, the camp may be somewhat basic, but as resources and timing permit, we aim to fully develop the camp within the next few years.

How do you pronounce your last name?

We pronounce our last name Shuh-Deen-Uh.

If you have any other questions for us, please feel free to reach out at camppromisedland@gmail.com or call me personally at (248) 807-1455.